Lower Back Ache

       A common cause of lower back ache and pain is a condition called sciatica. Sciatica is defined as symptoms of pain, weakness, numbness and tingling that originates in the lower back area and travels down through the buttocks and along the sciatic nerve in the back of the leg. Patients who experience sciatic pain generally find relief within several weeks from conservative forms of treatment, however some patients suffer with more severe forms and can sometimes require more aggressive treatment for pain relief. Sciatica is actually a symptom of another problem resulting from compression and irritation of the nerve roots associated with the sciatic nerve. Treatment involves focusing on the underlying problem of nerve root compression and irritation thus relieving the symptoms of sciatica.

Treatment 

       Conservative care such as chiropractic treatment along with massage therapy is an ideal treatment style for people suffering with sciatica. These therapies have been shown to provide effective pain relief for many patients suffering with sciatica. Chiropractic manipulation to correct spinal alignment can help in healing or preventing some episodes of sciatica. Massage therapy and acupuncture may also be used to help with increasing circulation and decreasing muscle tension in the affected area. Other conservative modalities that may be indicated in a patient presenting with sciatica would include heat and ice therapy to help reduce leg pain as well as physical therapy involving stretching and aerobic exercises. These exercises should be done to help strengthen back and abdominal muscles as well as stretch the muscles to help provide more circulation and flexibility in the back to help prevent future sciatica episodes.

References Cited in this Article

www.spine-health.com 

www.mayoclinic.com

www.medicinenet.com 

www.aaos.org